If you attended Centennial High School, live in Howard County, go to University of Maryland, or are just a fan of Maryland basketball then you have probably heard of the sensation Zachary Lederer. For those of you who have not, Zach was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was 10 years old and unfortunately left us on March 11th 2014. Zach was not just a kid with brain cancer he had the whole nation involved by his Zaching movement. He made muscles in a photo (see above) showing to his friends and family that he was okay not even 24 hours out of brain surgery. This photo went viral as well as Zach's positive attitude. His strong muscle pose eventually turned into a movement called Zaching. We can learn so much from Zachary Lederer and his attitude during this difficult time. Here are 15 of Zach's life lessons we can take from his 20 years of being with us...
1. Never give up.
Whether it's brain cancer or anything you're struggling with, never lose faith and always keep going. You'll never know until you try.
2. Keep your head up.
Life may not be going the way that you wanted, but the only tool you can use is keeping your head up and hold it high, you'll find a lot more confidence in yourself.
3. Always smile.
Smiling can do just as much as flexing your strong muscles, it makes you feel better as well as everyone else. You know what they say, smiles are contagious.
4. Don't beat yourself up.
Have some pride in yourself, if you don't think well about yourself than no one will.
5. Live life to the fullest.
You don't want to regret how your spent your life. Zach lived 20 years and I can guarantee you he did not regret much. He did just this, lived life to the fullest.
6. Have a big heart.
Zach made everyone feel like they were special and never having a mean word to say. There's no limit on how many people you can love and care about, so take advantage of that.
7.Keep complaints to a minimum.
Complaints don't make you feel good and they don't make others feel good. So remember to have a good attitude.
8. Love the life you live.
As cliché as it sounds, it's true. Your life is all yours and you can make it any way you want, so make it worthwhile.
9. Thank your loved ones.
Whether they're your caregivers or your friends and family, make them know that you appreciate and love them.
10. Be yourself.
For those of you who knew Zach, we all know he had quite the weird side and truly embraced it. Don't be afraid to be yourself, let your guard down and let people see the real you.
11. Care for others.
While Zach was chronically ill, he didn't make it all about him. He made sure everyone else was doing well even when cancer was at its toughest point. Remember to ask people how they're doing and be ready to listen.
12. Your siblings are your best friends.
You might not always get along but they are always right by your side. Don't take them for granted.
13. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
If life is getting tough remember you have so many people that love you and are always willing to lend a hand.
14. Remember to laugh.
Sometimes it's healthy to laugh at your troubles in life. It will help you get through them and will lighten you up.
15. You are living the dream.
This by far is the most important even while going through cancer and treatments Zach always said he was living the dream. You too are living the dream, life is what you make of it.
Being Zach's sister I have learned far more, but these 15 teachings are what I carry around with me day by day. I find comfort in them and I hope that you can too.
